When have I had to walk alone?
In February of 2000 my life was uprooted, and we moved as a family to Napa. I lost a lot when I moved. My church, Los Altos United Methodist was the foundation for my life. I loved attending services and going to church camp every year. I lived very close to my parents and lost the ability to see them often. I lost connections and communities that were very deep. I found myself in a desert. The desert lasted more than 40 days.
I am an extravert and found myself not knowing anyone in Napa, except my real estate agent. I tried desperately to make new connections. I tried making friends at my daughter’s new school. I went church shopping. My daughter joined a softball team. My next-door neighbor had a son the same age as Christopher and I hoped for a connection there. Everything I tried didn’t work. I was probably trying too hard. During this time, I prayed and I was also angry.
Slowly, I made some connections. Adrienne and Christopher started in the Fall at St. John’s Catholic School. One of Adrienne’s new classmates had a birthday party before school even started and invited Adrienne. I finally found an accepting loving community of parents that were willing to give me a chance even though they didn’t know me. I’m still close friends with some of the families. We attended St. John’s Church on Sundays because that is where many of our children’s friends attended church. I did find God there.
During this time, my faith taught me to be patient and hopeful. Today I am beyond grateful for our community at Napa Methodist. It is a place where I feel safe and where I belong. I now know love and community are what is important in life. God did test my faith but was always there for me.
Liz Marks